MARATHON MAN MICHAEL ASKING FOR HELP FROM LATICS FANS

First Team and Scotland physio Michael McBride in double Marathon appeal.

Michael McBride will be running Manchester and London Marathons in two weeks.

“He’s been a real asset to the club” – Gary Caldwell.

Latics and Scotland physio asking for support from Latics fans on his double marathon challenge.

Latics' first team and Scotland national team physiotherapist Michael McBride is aiming to complete two marathons in a fortnight when he competes in the Manchester and London events next month to raise money for MacMillan cancer support and leukaemia research, and he is hoping Latics supporters will help him by showing their customary generosity.

The 42-year-old was brought in to the club by manager Gary Caldwell last summer after the pair worked together for the Scotland national team and he continues to combine his duties for Scotland with Latics, still somehow finding the time to train in readiness for his marathon challenges.

"It has been tough fitting everything in," he says, "but these are causes which mean a lot to me and I really hope the Wigan Athletic supporters find it in their hearts to support me."

McBride has already took part in the London Marathon eight times and is now looking to make it 10 marathons by running in Manchester on April 10 and London on April 24.

Gary Caldwell said: "Michael is superb professional, which is why we brought him on board with us and he has been a major asset behind the scenes to us this season.

"He is an incredibly fit guy and if anyone can juggle two jobs with continually training for marathons, then he is that person. Please help him if you can."

As an added incentive, Michael has promised a bottle of champagne to the person donating on his JustGiving page who comes closest to predicting his finishing times.